They returned to their Beaumont Street lodgings about seven, and after a sombre dinner Meyrick went out to go and enquire at St.Cyprian's.
He had scarcely gone when the last Oxford post arrived, and a letter was brought up for Falloden.

It was addressed in his father's hand-writing.
He opened it mechanically; and in his preoccupation, he read it several times before he grasped his meaning.
* * * * * "My dear Son,"-- wrote Sir Arthur Falloden--"We expected you home early this week, for you do not seem to have told us that you were staying up for Commem.

In any case, please come home at once.

There are some very grave matters about which I must consult with you, and which will I fear greatly affect your future.

You will find me in great trouble, and far from well.